CropWatch July 25, 2014
Corn Production
- 2014 Forecasted Corn Yields Based on July 20 Hybrid Maize Model Simulations. Yield forecasts for 25 locations across the Corn Belt indicate above-average yield potential for irrigated corn and well-managed dryland corn in fields unaffected by hail or flooding.
- Southern Rust Confirmed on Corn in Southeast Nebraska. Southern rust, which is widespread in the south, is windborne. Scouting is recommended, particularly in late planted corn fields in southern Nebraska counties.
Insect Management
- Monitor Grasshopper Levels in Field Borders. Grasshoppers are being reported in areas bordering crop fields and are easiest to manage when small and contained. See treatment guidelines and control measures.
Wheat Production
- Common Bunt (Stinking Smut) in Wheat. This fungal disease, which is being reported in western Nebraska and eastern Colorado, starts way back at seed germination and is favored by cool, wet conditions during the growing season.
- Reminder: Wheat Production Workshop Aug. 4 at UNL Panhandle Center. Register by July 28.
Farm Management
- Resilient Ag Conference Now Open to Crop Advisors and Farmers. Attend Aug. 5-7 conference in person or online for CCA certification.
- The Great Balancing Act -- Negotiating a Cash Rental Rate. With lower crop prices but higher land taxes, landlords and tenants are reevaluating cash rental rates.
- Frequently Asked Questions - Farmland Leases. Responses to your questions on cash rent rates, lease types, who pays for what costs, etc.
Crop Reports
Alfalfa Production
- Seedbeds for Late Summer Grass and Alfalfa Planting. If you have soil moisture, August is a great time to plant alfalfa, grass or some small-seeded cover crops.
Market Journal
- View segments on the grain markets, foliar fungicide applications in soybean, wheat stem sawfly, fly control, and next week's forecast.